Synergy: Northern Mockingbird

The Northern Mockingbird is an omnivore often found in open areas and forest edges of North America. Known for its mimicry and intelligence, the bird is able to recognize individual people and imitate a variety of animal sounds. They can be found in both urban and rural habitats.

Read the recently published nonfiction book, then learn more at the website:

DUET: OUR JOURNEY IN SONG WITH THE NORTHERN MOCKINGBIRD by Phillip Hoose takes an interdisciplinary approach to telling the story of the relationship between humans and mockingbirds through history. Written for young adults, Hoose uses the Northern Mockingbird to demonstrate the resilience of both birds and humans. Concluding with an emphasis on climate change and other environmental challenges, readers are invited to explore ways to help mockingbirds and other songbirds. ARC courtesy of Farrar, Straus and Giroux, an imprint go Macmillan.

The NORTHERN MOCKINGBIRD from All About Birds provides an overview to the life, location, and sounds of the Northern Mockingbird. Visit the page at https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Northern_Mockingbird/overview.

The NORTHERN MOCKINGBIRD from Audubon shares background information about the bird along with information about its climate vulnerability. Visit the page at https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/northern-mockingbird.

Book Review: Jack London and the Klondike Gold Rush

JACK LONDON AND THE KLONDIKE GOLD RUSH by Peter Lourie tells the fast-paced story of how London’s gold rush experience inspired his writing.

Incorporating a wealth of historical photographs and other primary resources, Lourie uses an engaging nonfiction narrative style to tell the story of Jack London’s experiences in the Klondike. The short, action-packed chapters and historical sidebars add interest to this compelling story. The book concludes with a timeline, glossary, and other useful information.

Librarians will find that this new book complements existing library materials on the topic. Since Jack London’s works like CALL OF THE WILD and WHITE FANG are available to download, use this book to encourage youth to read the classics. Keep in mind that the author admits to taking liberties with the story to create an engaging biography likely to attract even reluctant readers.

Published by Henry Holt on December 1, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.